In a sweeping move late Friday, President Donald Trump dismissed at least 17 independent federal watchdogs, known as inspectors general (IGs), at multiple federal agencies, sources say.

Discussions about removing these oversight officials reportedly began during Trump’s transition back to the White House. While presidents have the authority to fire IGs, federal law requires notifying Congress 30 days in advance and providing detailed reasons for their removal—a safeguard strengthened by Congress in 2022.

Among the affected IGs, Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz, a prominent watchdog known for issuing critical reports on both the Trump and Biden administrations, had not received a termination notice as of Friday evening. Horowitz, an appointee of former President Barack Obama, has been a key figure in oversight investigations.

Federal law also stipulates that acting IGs must come from within the existing IG community, but it remains unclear whether the Trump administration intends to adhere to this requirement.

The dismissals reportedly blindsided the inspectors general, who received abrupt emails from Sergio Gor, director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office. One email reviewed by ABC News stated, “I am writing to inform you that due to changing priorities, your position…is terminated, effective immediately.”

Many of the fired IGs had previously engaged in constructive discussions with Trump transition officials at their respective agencies, according to a source familiar with the situation.

The firings drew sharp criticism from lawmakers. Senator Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, a staunch advocate for government accountability, noted on Saturday that Congress had not received the legally required 30-day notice.

The sudden terminations have sparked concerns about oversight and accountability in federal agencies, with critics warning that the removal of independent watchdogs could undermine transparency and checks on executive power.